Civil Defence Shuts Down Seven Illegal Private Security Firms in Abuja Over Licensing Violations
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has sealed off seven private security companies operating illegally within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, for failing to obtain valid licenses.
The move, which the Corps described as part of a broader effort to safeguard national security, follows routine monitoring operations conducted by the FCT Command.
The NSCDC said the affected firms either operated with expired licenses or had never been licensed at all—raising serious concerns about the recruitment and deployment of unvetted personnel into sensitive security roles.
Speaking during the enforcement operation, the FCT Commandant of the NSCDC, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, warned that illegal operations by unlicensed security outfits pose a grave danger to public safety.
He emphasized that these firms, in many cases, recruit random individuals and issue them uniforms without conducting any form of background checks or professional training.
“Some of these operators of private guard companies do not understand the implications of their actions on national security.
“We have had cases where guards were directly involved in kidnapping the very people who employed them. These illegal firms put lives and property at risk,” Odumosu stated.
Odumosu added that failure to properly profile and regulate security guards contributes to rising criminal incidents, including theft, surveillance breaches, and abductions.
The seven security companies sealed during the operation include:
• CEWARA Security – Wuse 2
• Most Bright Security – Jabi
• Security China – Jabi
• Ebowise Security – Jabi
• Barumark Security – Wuye
• Segad Security Protection Services – Prince and Princess Estate
• Prixair Security
Each of the firms was found to be operating in violation of national laws governing private security operations.
The violations included the use of unauthorized insignia, employing guards without NSCDC approval, and failing to renew operating licenses.
Under Nigerian law, all private guard companies are mandated to register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and obtain an operational license issued by the Ministry of Interior, in coordination with the NSCDC.
The Corps also prohibits non-indigenous security firms from operating within the country.
The NSCDC stated that its Private Guard Companies (PGC) department will continue to carry out inspections, enforce compliance, and clamp down on illegal operators across the nation.
“This action should serve as a warning to others operating outside the law,. There are many registered, professional security companies in Nigeria. Those wishing to enter the industry must follow due process and secure the appropriate approvals,” said Odumosu.
The NSCDC urged residents and corporate bodies to verify the licensing status of security firms before engaging their services.
Businesses and property owners are advised to report suspicious firms to the authorities for verification.
This latest enforcement action highlights the Corps’ renewed commitment to professionalizing the private security industry and ensuring that national security is not undermined by unscrupulous operators.
